The Role of Food in Diwali

Food is an essential part of Diwali celebrations, symbolising abundance, gratitude, and the joy of giving. From sweets to savoury snacks, each dish served during Diwali has its own significance. Preparations begin well in advance, as families create platters of homemade treats and snacks to share with loved ones, friends, and neighbours.

Traditional Diwali Sweets

Diwali sweets, or mithai, are central to the festivities. Here’s a look at some popular choices:

• Laddoos: Small, round, and full of flavour, laddoos are made with ingredients like gram flour, coconut, or semolina, often sweetened with sugar and enriched with ghee.
• Barfi: A fudge-like sweet, barfi is made from condensed milk and can be flavoured with anything from cardamom to pistachios and coconut.
• Gulab Jamun: Known for its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture, gulab jamun is made from khoya (dried milk solids), fried and soaked in sugar syrup infused with rose water.
• Jalebi: Crisp on the outside and syrupy within, jalebi is a popular sweet made from deep-fried batter and soaked in sugary syrup, often enjoyed warm.

These sweets are often shared as gifts, symbolising the sweetness of life, happiness, and the bond between family and friends.

Savoury Diwali Favourites

No Diwali spread is complete without a variety of savoury snacks. Spices, texture, and flavour combine to create an array of delicious options, including:

• Samosas: These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas are a favourite during Diwali gatherings.
• Kachoris: Another popular snack, kachoris are flaky pastries stuffed with spiced lentils or peas, providing a rich and satisfying flavour.
• Chivda: This snack mix, made from puffed rice, peanuts, and spices, is perfect for sharing and offers a crunchy, spicy kick.

These snacks highlight the diversity of flavours and ingredients found in Indian cuisine, as well as the creativity of home cooks and professional chefs alike.

The Spirit of Togetherness

Beyond the delicious foods, Diwali is a time for families and friends to come together. Meals are shared, diyas (oil lamps) are lit, and homes are filled with the aroma of spices and sweets. The act of sharing food during Diwali symbolises the generosity and warmth that lie at the heart of this celebration.

Happy Diwali from the Quality Food Awards

This Diwali, whether you’re celebrating with traditional treats, trying something new, or simply enjoying the spirit of the festival, we wish you joy, light, and wonderful flavours. From all of us at the Quality Food Awards, Happy Diwali! May your celebrations be filled with peace, prosperity, and delicious food that brings everyone together.